Grande Nive — La Classique: Louhossoa - Itxassou (Pas de Roland)

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Classe II-III (Pas de Roland III). What locals call 'La Classique': class II-III past the famous Pas de Roland narrows and the Ur Tipula club slalom basin at Itxassou, navigable year-round whatever the level. The river is fairly wide except at the Pas de Roland where it briefly narrows into the signature rapid. At low water there are nice surf waves; at high water it turns voluminous - more impressive but easier and less playful. Below the rapids a dam backwater leads to an artificial raft passage with slalom gates on the right bank. Season: Year-round Gauge reference: Itxassou gauge: 0.40 m minimum; 1.20 m medium, 2.50 m high; Pas de Roland works best around 1.50-1.60 m.

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